by Jarrett Bell, USA TODAY Sports

by Jarrett Bell, USA TODAY Sports

ASHBURN, Va. -- As expected, Robert Griffin III took the first snap at quarterback with the first-team offense during practice Monday afternoon for Washington, another clear indication that he continues to be on track to open the season in the starting lineup against the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday night as he returns from reconstructive knee surgery.

What concerns?

"I think we told you from Day 1 that Robert was going to be our starter, unless there was a setback," coach Mike Shanahan said during a post-practice news conference.

The matter needed an update nonetheless after Shanahan said Thursday night that surgeon James Andrews had "a couple of concerns" upon clearing Griffin to return to game action eight months after having surgery to repair a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee.

Shanahan said the concerns were addressed during a conference call on Sunday that included Griffin, Andrews, general manager Bruce Allen and other doctors -- but the coach refused to reveal the nature of any concerns.

In any event, Shanahan said Griffin's clearance is not contingent on any limitations in the team's offensive system, which includes read-option packages.

"I feel good about where Robert's at," Shanahan said. "He'll start on Monday night unless there's some crazy setback that we're not anticipating."

During the 25 minutes of the non-contact practice that were open to media, last season's NFL Rookie of the Year moved well and threw sharp, crisp passes. The team was outfitted with shoulder pads and shorts, with Griffin's attire including the brace on his surgically-repaired knee.

On the first snap, working on air without any defenders, Griffin fired a quick completion to receiver Josh Morgan on a flare pass. There were no apparent timing issues during the brief window of media access.

The session was closed to the media before the more competitive team drills.

"He's right where he needs to be right now," said Morgan.

Griffin did not speak to media following practice, but several teammates vouched for his continued progress.